geisha

[ gey-shuh, gee- ]

noun

, plural gei·sha, gei·shas.

1. a Japanese woman trained as a professional singer, dancer, and companion for men.

geisha

/ ˈɡeɪʃə /

noun

1. a professional female companion for men in Japan, trained in music, dancing, and the art of conversation

geisha

1. A Japanese woman who is trained and paid to provide entertainment and amusing company for men.

Word History and Origins

Origin of geisha¹

1890–95; < Japanese, equivalent to gei arts (< Chinese ) + -sha person (< Chin)

Word History and Origins

Origin of geisha¹

C19: from Japanese, from gei art + sha person, from Ancient Chinese ngi and che

Example Sentences

One didn’t feel any real connection between the lovers, but maybe that, too, was wanted, given that the callous American sailor treats marriage to a geisha during a shore leave in Nagasaki as a lark.

From Los Angeles Times

Others say that tourists sometimes disrespect local customs by, say, chasing after geishas to photograph them or eating while walking, a behavior that is considered rude in Japan.

From New York Times

A teenage geisha married off to an American naval lieutenant, she remains devoted to him long after he abandons her.

From New York Times

She’s a topless geisha in one sketch, a cartoonish chimera in another.

From New York Times

In one piece, called “#WTF,” a geisha takes a selfie as a palm tree burns in the background.

From Los Angeles Times